Apparatus, system and method for gyroscopic propulsion and/or steering

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, system and method provide gyroscopic propulsion and steering. Specifically, an apparatus, system and method provide inertial or gyroscopic propulsion utilizing the torque of rotating discs and/or weights to create an angular spin or precession. More specifically, rotation of a plurality of discs and/or weights on axes of rotation rotating around a major central axis of rotation creates a net force in a particular direction, allowing for propulsion and/or steering in that direction.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, system andmethod for gyroscopic propulsion and/or steering. Specifically, thepresent invention relates to an apparatus, system and method forgyroscopic propulsion utilizing the torque of gyroscopic discs orweights to create an angular spin and precessional force. Morespecifically, high speed rotation of a plurality of discs and/or weightson axes of rotation further rotating around a major central axis ofrotation creates a net force in a particular direction, allowing forpropulsion and/or steering in that direction.

It is generally known to produce propulsion by means of engines,rockets, electrical energy and the like. Typically, propulsion by thesemethods is relatively inefficient, in that large amounts of energy mustbe utilized to create propulsive forces. In addition, a large amount offuel must be utilized to create these propulsive forces. For example,rockets must carry large fuel tanks for combusting to create thenecessary propulsion. Moreover, steering is typically controlled bydeflecting linear forward motion, or creating side-to-side propulsiveforces that interact with forward or backward propulsive forces. Again,however, steering a body in this manner is relatively inefficient.

Moreover, gyroscopes are known. A gyroscope, generally, is a device formeasuring or maintaining orientation, based on the principles of angularmomentum. Generally, the device is a spinning wheel or disk whose axleis free to take any orientation. This orientation changes much less inresponse to a given external torque than it would without the largeangular momentum associated with the gyroscope's high rate of spin.

The behavior of a gyroscope can be most easily appreciated byconsideration of the front wheel of a bicycle. If the wheel is leanedaway from the vertical so that the top of the wheel moves to the left,the forward rim of the wheel also turns to the left. In other words,rotation on one axis of the turning wheel produces rotation of the thirdaxis.

A gyroscope flywheel will roll or resist about the output axis dependingupon whether output gimbals are of a free or fixed configuration.Examples of some free-output-gimbal devices would be the attitudereference gyroscopes used to sense or measure the pitch, roll and yawattitude angles in a spacecraft or aircraft. The center of gravity ofthe rotor can be in a fixed position. The rotor simultaneously spinsabout one axis and is capable of oscillating about the two other axes,and thus, except for its inherent resistance due to rotor spin, it isfree to turn in any direction about the fixed point.

Using fixed-position rotors, it is generally known to utilize one ormore gyroscopes to create a net force in a direction. This net force maybe used for propulsion and steering. For example, U.S. Pat. No.3,979,961 to Schnur relates to a device where a liquid is rotated in acentrifuge creating a net force in the direction of propulsion.Specifically, a quantity of liquid is rotated within an annular housingto centrifugally distribute the liquid thereabout in an annular channel.A deflection device is mounted within the housing and deflects theliquid inwardly from the annular channel at a predetermined positionrelative to an outside reference thereby creating an unbalancedcentrifugal force which unidirectionally propels the apparatus withcontinuous motion. However, the utilization of liquid for the purpose ofachieving a net force in the direction of propulsion is cumbersome, mayleak and lacks control.

Moreover, U.S. Pat. No. 4,409,856 to de Weaver III demonstrates howrotational motion can achieve movement of a body in a single direction.The propulsion system, as described by de Weaver III, utilizes a frame,a pair of counter-rotating lower members rotatably mounted to the frameand positioned above the lower members, each at an angle to the disk sothat each contacts a surface of the members below it at a single point,and a motor and drive train for driving the lower members. Each lowermember includes a pair of studs mounted at its periphery which engageradially extending posts mounted to its corresponding upper cylinder sothat rotation of the lower member causes the upper member to rotate inthe way, but damped and at the same angular velocity. The super positionof the damped upper members upon the damped lower members generatesunbalanced centrifugal forces which results in a constant unidirectionalresultant force.

Further developing this approach, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,234,267 and6,612,934, both to Foster, Sr., demonstrate devices and systems forconserving applied energy using reaction control devices that act inconjunction with normal methods of propulsion, theoretically saving fuelconsumption of an object under propulsion.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,784,006 to Kethley demonstrates a gyroscopic propulsiondevice including a rotatable body in which the center of mass of therotating body is offset away from a first axis to a second axis. Thebody rotating around the eccentric second axis of the rotating bodygenerates a propulsion force which moves a vehicle to which the deviceis attached.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,024,112 to Kidd demonstrates a gyroscopic apparatus thatis comprised of a pair of spinning discs disposed opposite one anotherwith arms rotatably supporting the discs connected to a pivot point, thepivot axis thereof lying in a plane midway between the discs. A drivearrangement operates to spin the discs in opposite directions whilesimultaneously rotating the whole assembly of discs and arms about asecond axis in the same plane as, but perpendicular to, the pivot axis.A camming arrangement working in conjunction with the rotation about thesecond axis periodically forces the spinning discs to pivot about thepivot axis to thereby generate a force along the second axis which canbe used to perform useful work.

While it is known to provide propulsion and steering utilizinggyroscopic devices, the patents described herein do not allow for arelatively small set of inertial drives on the rotating bodies. Theyfurther lack control and do not provide the ability to smoothlyeffectuate forward propulsion or steering.

A need, therefore, exists for an apparatus, system and method forgenerating propulsion and/or steering using gyroscopic devices. Morespecifically, a need exists for an apparatus, system and method forgenerating propulsion and/or steering utilizing a plurality of discsand/or weights rotating about a plurality of axes.

Moreover, a need exists for an apparatus, system and method forgenerating propulsion and/or steering of a body utilizing a plurality ofdiscs and/or weights rotating about a plurality of axes, wherein thepropulsion and/or steering is achieved by rotation of the weights aroundthe plurality of axes, relative to each other.

In addition, a need exists for an apparatus, system and method forgenerating propulsion and/or steering of a body utilizing a plurality ofdiscs and/or weights rotating about a plurality of axes, each of therotating plurality of discs and/or weights further rotating about amajor axis, providing a net force in particular direction.

Further, a need exists for an apparatus, system and method forgenerating propulsion and/or steering of a body, wherein the propulsionand steering is achieved via a rotation around a major axis that isadding a precessional force to a net centrifugal force.

Still further, a need exists for an apparatus, system and method forgenerating propulsion and/or steering of a body wherein the body is avehicle needing propulsion and/or steering in two-dimensions, such as anautomobile, a boat and the like, or in three-dimensions, such as asubmarine or a spaceship.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, system andmethod for gyroscopic propulsion and/or steering. Specifically, thepresent invention relates to an apparatus, system and method forgyroscopic propulsion utilizing the torque of gyroscopic discs orweights to create an angular spin and precessional force. Morespecifically, high speed rotation of a plurality of discs and/or weightson axes of rotation further rotating around a major central axis ofrotation creates a net force in a particular direction, allowing forpropulsion and/or steering in that direction.

To this end, in an embodiment of the present invention, a gyroscopicpropulsion and steering apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises abase; a shaft disposed longitudinally from the base, the shaft beingrotatable about a central axis; and a plurality of arms disposedlaterally from the shaft, each arm having a group of rods disposed onthe end thereof, each rod having a weight disposed on the end thereof,wherein each of the groups of rods and weights has a respective axis ofrotation and further wherein each of the groups of rods and the weightsthereon rotate around its respective axis.

In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a motor for rotating each ofthe groups of rods and weights.

In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a motor for rotating theshaft.

In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a motor for rotating both eachof the groups of rods and weights and for rotating the shaft.

In an embodiment, each of the arms is positioned equidistantly aroundthe shaft.

In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a lever connected to eachgroup of rods and weights for changing the position of the respectiveaxis of rotation for each of the groups of rods and weights.

In an embodiment, the shaft is disposed through the base and rotateswhile the base remains stationary with respect to the shaft.

In an embodiment of the present invention, a gyroscopic propulsion andsteering system is provided. The system comprises a vehicle; and agyroscopic propulsion and steering apparatus comprising a base attachedto the vehicle, a shaft disposed longitudinally from the base, aplurality of arms disposed laterally from the shaft, each arm having agroup of rods disposed on the end thereof, each rod having a weightdisposed on the end thereof, wherein each of the groups of rods and theweights has a respective axis of rotation and further wherein each ofthe groups of rods and the weights thereon rotates around its respectiveaxis.

In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a motor for rotatingeach of the groups of rods and weights.

In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a motor for rotatingthe shaft.

In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a motor for rotatingthe shaft and each of the groups of rods and weights.

In an embodiment, each of the arms is positioned equidistantly aroundthe shaft.

In an embodiment, the system further comprises a lever connected to eachgroup of rods and weights for changing the position of the respectiveaxis of rotation for each of the groups of rods and weights.

In an embodiment, the shaft is disposed through the base and rotateswhile the base remains stationary with respect to the shaft.

In an embodiment of the present invention, a method of propelling andsteering a vehicle is provided. The method comprises the steps ofproviding a gyroscopic propulsion and steering apparatus attached to avehicle, the apparatus comprising a base attached to the vehicle, ashaft disposed longitudinally from the base and having a central axis ofrotation, a plurality of arms disposed laterally from the shaft, eacharm having a group of rods disposed on the end thereof, each rod havinga weight disposed on the end thereof, wherein each of the groups of rodsand the weights has an axis of rotation; rotating the plurality ofgroups of rods and weights around each respective axis; and rotating theshaft around the central axis.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises providing a motormechanically connected to the plurality of groups of rods and weights;and rotating the plurality of groups of rods and weights via the motor.

In an embodiment, the apparatus has a top and further the methodcomprises disposing the top of the apparatus in a first direction topropel the vehicle in the first direction.

In an embodiment, each of the groups of rods and weights has a lever forchanging the position of each respective axis of rotation for the groupsof rods and weight, and further wherein the method comprises changingthe positions of the respective axes of rotation to propel the apparatusin a direction.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises disposing a secondgyroscopic propulsion and steering apparatus attached to the vehicle,the apparatus comprising a base attached to the vehicle, a shaftdisposed longitudinally from the base, a plurality of arms disposedlaterally from the shaft, each arm having a group of rods disposed onthe end thereof, each rod having a weight disposed on the end thereof,wherein each of the groups of rods and the weights has an axis ofrotation and further wherein each of the groups of rods and the weightsthereon rotate around its respective axis; propelling the vehicle in afirst direction using the first apparatus; and propelling the vehicle ina second direction using the second apparatus.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises disposing a plurality ofgyroscopic propulsion and steering apparatuses in the vehicle, whereineach of the apparatuses comprises a base attached to the vehicle, ashaft disposed longitudinally from the base, a plurality of armsdisposed laterally from the shaft, each arm having a group of rodsdisposed on the end thereof, each rod having a weight disposed on theend thereof, wherein each of the groups of rods and the weights has anaxis of rotation and further wherein each of the groups of rods and theweights thereon rotate around its respective axis; and steering thevehicle through three-dimensional space using the plurality ofapparatuses.

It is, therefore, an advantage to provide an apparatus, system andmethod for generating propulsion and/or steering using gyroscopicdevices. More specifically, it is an advantage to provide an apparatus,system and method for generating propulsion and/or steering utilizingone or a plurality of weights rotating about respective axes ofrotation.

Moreover, it is an advantage to provide an apparatus, system and methodfor generating propulsion and/or steering of a body and/or a vehicleutilizing a plurality of weights rotating about a plurality ofrespective axes, wherein the propulsion and/or steering is achieved byrotation of the weights around the plurality of axes, relative to eachother.

In addition, it is an advantage to provide an apparatus, system andmethod for generating propulsion and/or steering of a body utilizing aplurality of weights rotating about a plurality of respective axes, eachof the rotating discs and/or weights further rotating about a majorcentral axis, providing a net force in a particular direction.

Further, it is an advantage to provide an apparatus, system and methodfor generating propulsion and/or steering of a body, wherein thepropulsion and steering is achieved via a rotation around a major axisthat is adding a precessional force to a net centrifugal force.

Still further, it is an advantage to provide an apparatus, system andmethod for generating propulsion and/or steering of a body wherein thebody is a vehicle needing propulsion and/or steering in two-dimensions,such as an automobile, a boat and the like, or in three-dimensions, suchas a submarine or a spaceship.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention aredescribed in, and will be apparent from, the detailed description of thepresently preferred embodiments and from the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an apparatus for providinggyroscopic propulsion and/or steering, in an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a top plan view of the apparatus for providinggyroscopic propulsion and/or steering, in an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the apparatus for providinggyroscopic propulsion and/or steering, in an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of an apparatus for providing gyroscopicpropulsion and/or steering, in an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of an apparatus for providing gyroscopicpropulsion and/or steering utilizing asymmetric rotation of weightsabout a major axis of rotation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, system andmethod for gyroscopic propulsion and/or steering. Specifically, thepresent invention relates to an apparatus, system and method forgyroscopic propulsion utilizing the torque of gyroscopic discs orweights to create an angular spin and precessional force. Morespecifically, high speed rotation of a plurality of discs and/or weightson axes of rotation further rotating around a major central axis ofrotation creates a net force in a particular direction, allowing forpropulsion and/or steering in that direction.

Now referring to the figures, wherein like numerals refer to like parts,an apparatus 10 is provided, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. The apparatus10 may comprise a base 12, a shaft 14 disposed vertically through thebase 12. The shaft 14 may be cylindrical. The apparatus 10 further maycomprise a plurality of arms 16 a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 d extendinglaterally and generally vertically from the shaft 14.

Attached to each of the arms 16 a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 d may be a disc,illustrated in FIG. 1 as 18 a, 18 b, 18 c and 18 d. Preferably, each ofthe arms 16 a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 d may be equidistant from the shaft 14and equiangular from each other, thereby extending from the shaft 14 ina plurality of different directions relative to the shaft 14.

A plurality of rods may be further attached to each of the arms 16 a, 16b, 16 c and 16 d, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. 3. As illustrated in FIG.2, arm 16 a may include eight rods labeled 20 a, 20 b, 20 c, 20 d, 20 e,20 f, 20 g and 20 h, respectively. The rods 20 a-20 h may be attached tothe arm 16 a via connector 17 a, extending from the arm 16 a, asillustrated in FIG. 2. Preferably, each of the rods 20 a-20 h may behingedly attached to the connector 17 a. Each of the remaining arms 16b, 16 c and 16 d may have a plurality of rods that may be attached inthe same manner as the rods 20 a-20 h may be attached to the arm 16 avia the connectors 17 b, 17 c and 17 d. It should also be noted that anynumber of rods may be disposed on each of the arms, and the inventionshould not be limited as described herein. Further, it should be notedthat each of the arms may or may not have the plurality of discs 18 a,18 b, 18 c and 18 d. The discs 18 a, 18 b, 18 c and 18 d may be utilizedas guards or holders for the plurality of rods, as described above, tokeep the rods from extending beyond the discs and for control of therods during rotation thereof, as described below.

Attached to each of the rods 20 a-20 h may be a weight, illustrated inFIG. 1 as 22 a, 22 b, 22 c, 22 d, 22 e, 22 f, 22 g and 22 h,respectively. Preferably, the weights may be of equal weight and size.However, the weights may be of unequal weight, size and shape as well,and the invention should not be limited as described herein. Rotation ofthe weights, as described below, provides outwardly disposed centrifugalforce when rotated about an axis. An equal distribution of weightsrotating at the same speed at the same angle relative to the shaft 14may produce an equal outward centrifugal force as the weights rotateabout the axis.

In an embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3,each of the groupings of weights on each arm 16 a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 dmay rotate about an axis generally in line with each of the arms. FIG.3, representing a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 10 along lineIII-III in FIG. 2, illustrates the axis of rotation for two of the arms16 a, 16 c, designated as dashed lines 24 a and 24 c. It should be notedthat the other two arms, 16 b, 16 d also may have axes of rotation notillustrated in FIG. 3. The axes of rotation 24 a, 24 c may be disposedin different directions, but generally laterally and upwardly from theshaft 14.

Rotation of the rods and the weights may cause a gyroscopic effect asthe rods and weights rotate about their respective axes of rotation. Therotation of the weights and rods may be caused by motor 26 disposed on,in or near the base 12, and can be further seen as illustrated in FIGS.2 and 3, as described below. It should be noted that the motor 26 may bedisposed in any location apparent to one having ordinary skill in theart to provide rotation of the rods and weights, respectively.

The shaft 14 of the apparatus 10 may also rotate around a central axis,designated in FIG. 3 as central axis 28, causing each of the arms 16 a,16 b, 16 c and 16 d to rotate around the central axis 28. Of course, thegroupings of weights on each arm 16 a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 d may eachrotate about their own axis of rotation at the same time as the arms 16a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 d are rotating about the central axis 28.

Without being bound by theory, it is believed that rotation of the shaft14 about the central axis 28 may cause a forced deflection of each ofthe gyroscopes that may be created by rotation of the groups of weightson each of the arms 16 a, 16 b, 16 c and 16 d, thereby causing a netforce in a particular direction. The particular direction in theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 may be vertical. The shaft 14 mayrotate due to the motor 26. The mechanics of the rotation caused by themotor 26 is further illustrated in FIG. 3.

In a preferred embodiment, rotation of the shaft 14 and each of thegroups of weights, may be caused by a single motor 26, as illustrated inFIG. 3. However, two or more motors may be utilized to drive each of therotating parts of the present invention, as apparent to one havingordinary skill in the art. With enough rotational speed of each of thegroups of weights, as well as the shaft 14, a significant force may begenerated in the vertical direction.

While the invention has been described herein with four arms, 16 a, 16b, 16 c and 16 d, it should be noted that more or less arms may beutilized for the present invention, and the invention should not belimited as herein described. With the additional arms, there may be rodsand weights attached to each of the additional arms, as generallydescribed herein. When rotating, these further gyroscopes may affect thenet force when deflected by rotation of the shaft 14. Preferably, thenumber of arms may be disposed around the shaft 14 such that thedistribution of weights may be balanced when rotating. This may allowthe net force to be maintained smoothly. Therefore, the arms, discs,rods and weights may be disposed in such as way as to be balanced in theapparatus 10.

While the apparatus may be made from any material apparent to one havingordinary skill in the art, it is preferred that the apparatus be aslight as possible, with the exception of the weights disposed on each ofthe rods that may cause the gyroscopic effect when rotating. However, itis contemplated that the net force generated by the apparatus 10 may beideally suited for space travel, where weight factors may be minimizeddue to weightlessness of a vehicle in space.

Still referring to FIG. 3, the shaft 14 may be connected to a wheel 30,connected by belt 32 to the motor 26. The speed of the rotation of theshaft 14 may be controlled by the motor 26, and should the speed bedesired to change, the motor speed may be changed and/or a gear systemmay be introduced to change the motor speed.

The motor 26 may be any motor apparent to one having ordinary skill inthe art to provide rotation to the various moving parts of the apparatus10. Preferably, the motor may be an electric motor, but other motors mayfurther be utilized without detracting from the present invention.

The shaft 14 has an internal shaft 34 that may drive the rotation ofinternal arm shafts 36 a and 36 c. It should be noted that while FIG. 3illustrates only two of the arms of the apparatus 10, the other arms notshown may have internal arm shafts connected in a same or a similarmanner.

The internal shaft 34 may be connected to a second wheel 38 and belt 40,which may also be driven by the motor 26. Rotation of the internal shaft34 may cause rotation of the internal arm shafts 36 a, 36 c viamechanical transfer via gears. Specifically, internal shaft 34 mayterminate with a tapered gear 42 engaging gears 44 a, 44 c on each ofthe internal arm shafts 36 a, 36 c, respectively. The internal armshafts 36 a, 36 c, as illustrated in FIG. 3, may be connected to theconnectors 17 a, 17 c, respectively. Rotation of the internal arm shafts36 a, 36 c may cause rotation of the connectors 17 a, 17 c, which maycause rotation of the rods 20 a, 20 e and weights 22 a, 22 e. Of course,the other rods and weights, not shown, may also rotate via rotation ofthe arm shafts 36 a, 36 c. Further, the other arms not shown in FIG. 3may have similar parts causing rotation of their respective rods andweights.

Preferably, the rods 20 a, 20 e, as well as the other rods not shown inFIG. 3, may be hingedly attached to the connector 17 a. This allows therods to move outward or toward the axis of rotation 24 a, depending onthe speed of the rotation of the disc 18 a. By providing this freedom,the rods 20 a, 20 e as well as the weights 22 a, 22 e may naturally fallinto a balanced position when rotating and creating a centrifugal force,thereby providing more efficient and smooth net force in the desireddirection. For example, if the weights spin at a particular speed, thismay cause the rods 20 a, 20 e and hence, the weights 22 a, 22 e to fallnaturally into a particular position based on the centrifugal forces,relative to the axis of rotation 24 a. In addition, rotation of theshaft 14 further may cause the rods and weights to naturally fall into aparticular position, maximizing the force in the particular direction.

As noted above, rotation of the rods and weights of the apparatus 10 maycreate four gyroscopes. Preferably, the rods and weights each may spinin the same direction, such as clockwise or counter-clockwise at thesame speed. Therefore, it is preferable that each of the discs may berotated by the same motor 26, as illustrated in FIG. 3. However, itshould be noted that each gyroscope may be rotated independently of theother. Moreover, each gyroscope may rotate either clockwise orcounter-clockwise irrespective of the direction of rotation of the othergyroscopes. While it is preferred that each gyroscope may rotate at thesame speed, each gyroscope may rotate at different speeds. Rotation ofeach of the four gyroscopes along their axes of rotation, along withrotation about the central axis 28 may cause a net force of theapparatus in the vertical direction.

Many aspects of the invention may be changed to optimize the net forcethat may be created by the rotation of the various parts. Specifically,the weights on each of the rods may be made heavier or lighter and, asnoted above, may be any shape. It is understood that heavier weights maycause a larger centrifugal force when rotation, thereby causing a largernet force in the vertical direction. In addition, the length of the rodsmay be changed—longer rods may cause an increase in torque as theweights spin. In addition, the speed of the rotation of the rods andweights may change as well. Further, the lengths of the arms may beincreased or decreased. Moreover, the speed of the rotation of the shaft14 may be changed. Each of these independent elements may be changed tooptimize the net force and the control thereof. One having ordinaryskill in the art may optimize the apparatus 10 by making these changeswithout undue experimentation.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the net force may be in the verticaldirection, generally in the direction of the central axis 28. However,it should be noted that the apparatus 10 may be turned on its side toprovide propulsion in a particular horizontal direction as well, withthe force disposed in the direction of the central axis 28 that may bedisposed horizontally. Therefore, one or more of the apparatus 10 may beutilized to provide propulsion and steering in particular directions.For example, a single apparatus 10 may be utilized to propel a vehiclein a desired direction of travel by disposing the entire apparatus 10 inthe desired direction of travel. Simply turning the apparatus andchanging the disposing of the central axis of rotation 28 may cause thevehicle to turn in the direction desired.

Alternatively, a plurality of apparatuses 10, as described herein, maybe utilized to cause propulsion and/or steering. More specifically, theplurality of apparatuses 10 may each have a relative net force and maybe “pointed” in different directions, such as forward, aft, left andright on a vehicle. By adjusting the net forces created by each of theapparatuses disposed around the vehicle, one may propel and steer thevehicle in any desired direction of travel in two dimensions.

Moreover, while propulsion and steering may be useful in two-dimensions,it is further contemplated that propulsion and steering may also beuseful in three-dimensions. By incorporating a plurality of theapparatuses described herein forward, aft, right and left, as well as ontop and at a bottom of a vehicle, one may control a vehicle inthree-dimensional space. This may be particularly useful for propellingand steering spacecraft or submarines.

In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5, a side view of an apparatus 110 is illustrated. Theapparatus 110 may have a base 112, a shaft 114 and a plurality of arms116 a, 116 b. Although the apparatus 110 merely shows two arms, 116 a,116 b, more arms may be disposed on the shaft 114, not shown. Further,attached to each of the arms 116 a, 116 b are discs 118 a, 118 b. Again,a plurality of discs may be provided on arms that are not shown in FIG.4. Further attached to the arm 116 a may be rods 120 a, 120 b withweights 122 a, 122 b disposed thereon, connected to the arm 116 a viaconnector 117 a. For purposes of illustration, only one of the arms 116a, 116 b will be discussed herein, with respect to the rods and weights,but it should be noted that the arm not described herein also may havethe rods and weights disposed thereon in a manner similar to, if not thesame, as the arm described.

As illustrated, the apparatus 110 rotates the connector 117 a, therebyrotating the rods 120 a, 120 b and weights 122 a, 122 b about the axis124 a. The rods 120 a, 120 b and weights 122 a, 122 b, may be rotated bythe motor 126. In addition, the shaft 114 is rotated by the motor 126.As in the apparatus 10, illustrated and described with respect to FIGS.1-3, a single motor may be utilized, or a plurality of motors asapparent to one having ordinary skill in the art.

Changing the angle that each disc 118 a and/or 118 b (or any other discdisposed thereon) may have with respect to the apparatus 110, one maychange the relative positions of the rods and, hence, the weights, asthe rods and weights on each of the arms may be rotating. Specifically,as the arms 116 a, 116 b may rotate about central axis 128, the anglesof the discs 118 a, 118 b may change at certain positions around theshaft 114. For example, the angle of the discs 118 a, 118 b may bedisposed at a different angles relative to the central axis 128 when ona right side of the shaft 114 than on the left side of the shaft 114.This is illustrated in FIG. 5, and described in more detail below.Changing of the angles of the discs 118 a, 118 b may cause a change inthe relative positions of the axes of rotations 124 a, 124 b, withrespect to the central axis 128.

This may cause a change in the net force, thereby causing a force in adirection other than the vertical direction, allowing for steering.Specifically, by changing the angle of the discs as the discs rotateabout the shaft 114, one may change the force from a straight upvertical direction to a vertical and a horizontal direction. This mayallow steering by changing the angle of one or more discs on theapparatus 110. Therefore, each disc 118 a, 118 b may include a lever 150a, 150 b. Each of the levers 150 a, 150 b may be connected to lines 152a, 152 b that may contact or otherwise be connected to the discs 118 a,118 b. A second line 154 a, 154 b may run from each of the levers 150 a,150 b to a platform 156 held downwards by a spring 160 disposed aroundthe shaft 114 and held in place with telescoping holders 162, 164.

When steering of the apparatus and, consequently, a vehicle attached tothe apparatus, may be desired of the apparatus 110, the levers 150 a,150 b may be adjusted to change the angle of each of the discs 118 a,118 b in certain positions as the discs may be rotated about the centralaxis 128. As illustrated in FIG. 5, when each of the discs 118 a, 118 bmay move to the right-most position, relative to the position of theapparatus 110, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the discs 118 a, 118 bmay change their angles, thereby changing the positions of the axes ofrotation 124 a, 124 b. When the discs 118 a, 118 b may rotate around theshaft and may change their relative positions, the angles of the discs118 a, 118 b may change, thereby changing the axes of rotation 124 a,124 b. By changing the angle of each of the discs 118 a, 118 b, thegyroscopes that may be created by the rotating rods and weights may bedisposed in a slightly different position, thereby affecting thedirection of the net force created when the shaft 114 rotates.

Specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates this concept. Pulling the platform 156down on one side may push the telescoping holder 164 downwardly and thetelescoping holder 162 upwardly. This may cause the levers 150 a, 150 bto change their positions, ultimately causing the discs 118 a, 118 b tochange their angles relative to the apparatus 110. When the discs 118 a,118 b may be rotating about the central axis 128, the net forcegenerated by the apparatus 110 may be deflected to the side so the netforce has both a vertical and a horizontal component. This may be usedto steer the apparatus and, hence, a vehicle having the apparatusattached thereto, in a desired direction. The telescoping holders 162,164 may be pulled downwardly and/or pushed upwardly via manual movementof the platform 156, via hydraulics, or via some other control mechanismapparent to one having ordinary skill in the art.

Also shown in FIG. 5 are the hinged rods 120 a, 120 b with the rodslying 180° from each other, pushed into that position by the centrifugalforces acting upon the rods and weights by rotation of the disc 118 a,the rods 120 a, 120 b and the weights 122 a, 122 b. Depending on theangle of the discs 118 a, 118 b as the discs rotate around the centralaxis 128, the rods and weights disposed on each of the arms 116 a, 116 bmay be disposed in different positions. It may be that the rods wouldnaturally fall to an angle less than 180°.

Other embodiments, not shown by the present invention, include aplurality of apparatuses that may be stacked upon each other in thevertical direction along one or more shafts to provide a greater netforce when the rods and weights, as well as the shafts, rotate.

It should be understood that various changes and modifications to thepresently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent tothose skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention andwithout diminishing its attendant advantages. It is, therefore, intendedthat such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

1. A gyroscopic propulsion and steering apparatus comprising: a base; ashaft disposed longitudinally from the base, the shaft being rotatableabout a central axis; and a plurality of arms disposed laterally fromthe shaft, each arm having a group of rods disposed on the end thereof,each rod having a weight disposed on the end thereof, wherein each ofthe groups of rods and weights has a respective axis of rotation andfurther wherein each of the groups of rods and the weights thereonrotate around its respective axis.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising: a motor for rotating each of the groups of rods and weights.3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a motor for rotating theshaft.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a motor forrotating both each of the groups of rods and weights and for rotatingthe shaft.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1 further wherein each of the armsis positioned equidistantly around the shaft.
 6. The apparatus of claim1 further comprising: a lever connected to each group of rods andweights for changing the position of the respective axis of rotation foreach of the groups of rods and weights.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1further wherein the shaft is disposed through the base and rotates whilethe base remains stationary with respect to the shaft.
 8. A gyroscopicpropulsion and steering system comprising: a vehicle; and a gyroscopicpropulsion and steering apparatus comprising a base attached to thevehicle, a shaft disposed longitudinally from the base, a plurality ofarms disposed laterally from the shaft, each arm having a group of rodsdisposed on the end thereof, each rod having a weight disposed on theend thereof, wherein each of the groups of rods and the weights has arespective axis of rotation and further wherein each of the groups ofrods and the weights thereon rotates around its respective axis.
 9. Thesystem of claim 8 wherein the apparatus further comprises a motor forrotating each of the groups of rods and weights.
 10. The system of claim8 wherein the apparatus further comprises a motor for rotating theshaft.
 11. The system of claim 8 wherein the apparatus further comprisesa motor for rotating the shaft and each of the groups of rods andweights.
 12. The system of claim 8 wherein each of the arms ispositioned equidistantly around the shaft.
 13. The system of claim 8further comprising: a lever connected to each group of rods and weightsfor changing the position of the respective axis of rotation for each ofthe groups of rods and weights.
 14. The system of claim 8 wherein theshaft is disposed through the base and rotates while the base remainsstationary with respect to the shaft.
 15. A method of propelling andsteering a vehicle comprising the steps of: providing a gyroscopicpropulsion and steering apparatus attached to a vehicle, the apparatuscomprising a base attached to the vehicle, a shaft disposedlongitudinally from the base and having a central axis of rotation, aplurality of arms disposed laterally from the shaft, each arm having agroup of rods disposed on the end thereof, each rod having a weightdisposed on the end thereof, wherein each of the groups of rods and theweights has an axis of rotation; rotating the plurality of groups ofrods and weights around each respective axis; and rotating the shaftaround the central axis.
 16. The method of claim 15 further comprising:providing a motor mechanically connected to the plurality of groups ofrods and weights; and rotating the plurality of groups of rods andweights via the motor.
 17. The method of claim 15 wherein the apparatushas a top and further wherein the method comprises: disposing the top ofthe apparatus in a first direction to propel the vehicle in the firstdirection.
 18. The method of claim 15 wherein each of the groups of rodsand weights has a lever for changing the position of each respectiveaxis of rotation for the groups of rods and weight, and further whereinthe method comprises: changing the positions of the respective axes ofrotation to propel the apparatus in a direction.
 19. The method of claim15 further comprising: disposing a second gyroscopic propulsion andsteering apparatus attached to the vehicle, the apparatus comprising abase attached to the vehicle, a shaft disposed longitudinally from thebase, a plurality of arms disposed laterally from the shaft, each armhaving a group of rods disposed on the end thereof, each rod having aweight disposed on the end thereof, wherein each of the groups of rodsand the weights has an axis of rotation and further wherein each of thegroups of rods and the weights thereon rotate around its respectiveaxis; propelling the vehicle in a first direction using the firstapparatus; and propelling the vehicle in a second direction using thesecond apparatus.
 20. The method of claim 15 further comprising:disposing a plurality of gyroscopic propulsion and steering apparatusesin the vehicle, wherein each of the apparatuses comprises a baseattached to the vehicle, a shaft disposed longitudinally from the base,a plurality of arms disposed laterally from the shaft, each arm having agroup of rods disposed on the end thereof, each rod having a weightdisposed on the end thereof, wherein each of the groups of rods and theweights has an axis of rotation and further wherein each of the groupsof rods and the weights thereon rotate around its respective axis; andsteering the vehicle through three-dimensional space using the pluralityof apparatuses.